Charleston Distance Run

15-Mile Turn by Turn Directions

1. Start Kanawha Blvd /WV State Capitol Steps
2. West on Kanawha Boulevard
3. Right on Clendenin Street
4. Right on Virginia Street
5. Right on South Side Bridge
6. Right onto CSX Ramp (Ferry Street)
7. Right on Thayer Street
8. Left on MacCorkle Avenue
9. Left on Route 119 South (Capital Punishment Hill)
10. Left on Oakwood Road
11. Right on Bridge Road
12. Left on Louden Heights Down Hill crossing South Side Bridge
13. Right on Virginia Street East crossing through WV Capitol to Washington Street East
14. Right on Chesapeake Avenue
15. Right on Kanawha Boulevard running West
16. Right on Clendenin Street to Donnally Street
17. Left on Court Street
18. Right Piedmont Road
19. Right on Morris Street
20. Left onto Hansford to UC Stadium to Finish Line on a Rubber Race Track

Why 15 miles? 

Because it’s historic – the Charleston Distance Run began as a 15-mile race in 1973, and it has followed essentially the same course over the years. There weren’t many marathons – and only a few half marathons – in 1973.

Because it’s unique – our 15-mile race is the only one in America!

Because our runners love it – first-timers say that our challenging course fills them “with a sense of accomplishment like no other race,” “touches their hearts,” “is a real memory-maker,” “love the Challenge of Capital Punishment Hill. . . .”

How does the relay work?

The splits for the relay are 3, 5, and 7 miles, and the exchanges take place in the middle of the South Side Bridge. The 3 and 7 mile segments are virtually flat, and the 5-mile segment goes through the hills. Exchanges are in the middle of the South Side Bridge. Participants must arrange their own transportation to/from the exchange point.

A runner registered in the 15 mile race may also register for the relay and run the 1st leg wearing both bibs. Runner must also register for the relay.

Where do the races start and finish?

All races start at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2024, in front of the West Virginia State Capitol Building at 1900 Kanawha Boulevard E., Charleston, WV.

All races finish at Laidley Field on a rubber race track. The stadium is within walking distance of the State Capitol, and the two share overflow parking.

Where can I park for the races?

Free parking is available at the State Capitol in the parking lot and building behind the Capitol for Saturday’s events. Parking also is available on various lots located on Washington Street East, near the intersection with Greenbrier Street, and also at Laidley Field. There is no baggage check on race day.

What is the average weather on race morning?

The weather can vary on race day. The average temperature at the start at 7:30 a.m. is approximately 60 degrees, but the temperature and humidity often rises significantly during the race. It has only rained twice during our 51 year history, but we will still run or walk if it rains.

What is the inclement weather policy?

Although it has never been necessary, the Race Director may cancel, delay, or change the events in case of extreme weather or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of the participants. In the event of extreme weather during the Race, the Race Director may decide to shut down the course. Should that occur, volunteers or traffic control on the course will be released from their positions; runners will be notified and asked to take shelter. If you refuse to take shelter and continue on the course, you do so at your own risk.

In the event of inclement weather, entry fees are non-refundable.

How are the races timed?

All events on Saturday will be timed, using a timing strip tag located on the reverse side of each runner’s bib. These are one-time use tags and do not have to be returned. Both “chip” times and “gun” times will be provided. Please be sure your race bib is clearly visible on the front of your shirt or on the front of your short’s right leg. Do not fold, wrinkle, or tear your race bib.

Where are the aid and water stations?

There are stations with water and Gatorade approximately one to two miles apart on the 15-mile and 5K run/walk courses. There are 12 stations total on the 15-mile course, plus stations at the start and finish.

Are there Portajohns at the race start and on the course?

Yes. There are a number of Portajohns on California Avenue at the start and also located throughout the 15-mile course.

Can I wear headphones during the race?

The use of personal listening devices with headphones or ear buds is strongly discouraged for safety reasons. We ask that you please remember that you are sharing the roads with other participants and, in some cases, vehicular traffic. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Are baby strollers/joggers or pets allowed during the race?

Baby strollers/joggers are allowed in the 5k race, but NOT the 15-mile race. We ask that they line up in the rear of the 5k group at the start, for safety reasons.

Pets are NOT permitted in either the 5k or 15-mile races.

Are there time limits for the 15-mile race?

Yes. There is a four-hour time limit for the 15-mile race.

What happens after the races?

Water, refreshments, and pizza will be available to all participants at Laidley Field. Showers will be available at Laidley Field until 11:00 a.m.